Annual McBride Lecture

Trumka is a leader in the struggle for economic justice. Born into a coal-mining family in southwestern Pennsylvania, he worked in the coal mines for more than seven years, learning many lessons, including the importance of hard work, safety on the job, and solidarity. Trumka has been an outspoken critic of renegade corporate behavior and a tireless advocate for workers’ rights.

Each year, the Higgins Labor Studies Program invites a nationally recognized leader to talk on a current labor topic, addressing both the campus and local communities. The annual McBride Lecture was established in 1977 by the United Steelworkers (USW) “to better understand the principles of unionism and our economy.” It honors the fourth international president of the USW, Lloyd McBride, who was president from 1977 to 1983. Past speakers include labor leaders, politicians, writers, and economists.